Thanasi Kokkinakis advances at French Open after five-set epic

·

After launching his French Open 2024 campaign with a marathon win over fellow Australian Alexei Popyrin, the world No.100 Thanasi Kokkinakis triumphed over Italian qualifier Giulio Zeppieri in another five-set epic.

With his 1-6, 4-6, 6-3, 7-6(7/5), 6-2 victory, the 28-year-old Kokkinakis moves into the French Open third round for the third time in his career.

As often occurs in a Kokkinakis encounter, there were multiple twists and turns in the near four-hour contest, with the Australian undeniably flat in the early stages against the world No.148 Zeppieri. He dropped the first two sets.

The first set passed in 34 minutes, but rain interrupted the second. The players endured a delay of over an hour and it appeared to recharge the Greek Australian.

Kokkinakis came back to win the third set 6-3 and won a tiebreak 7-5 to send the match to a deciding set as they went beyond three hours on court.

With the Italian appearing to fatigue, and treated for a leg complaint, Kokkinakis drew on his experience as he closed out the five-set victory when a Zeppieri forehand sailed long. The match lasted three hours and 45 minutes.

Kokkinakis now prepares to meet No.12 seed Taylor Fritz in the third round.

Source: ABC News.

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Latest News

Maria Sakkari ends Iga Swiatek’s streak to reach Doha semi-finals

Maria Sakkari produced a comeback to defeat world No. 2 Iga Swiatek 2–6, 6–4, 7–5 in the quarter-finals of the Qatar TotalEnergies Open.

Sussan Ley ousted as Angus Taylor takes helm of Liberal Party

Angus Taylor has been elected the new leader of the Liberal Party, securing a decisive 34–17 victory in a dramatic party room ballot.

Krama Brass Band enchants guests at Cyprus EU Presidency event in Canberra

The High Commission of the Republic of Cyprus in Australia held a cultural event on February 10 at the Hellenic Club’s main function hall.

Alphington Grammar honours Class of 2025 at Scholars Assembly

Alphington Grammar School celebrated the academic achievements of its high-performing Class of 2025 at the annual Scholars Assembly.

Ties strengthened at diplomatic reception in Perth attended by Greek Consul

Consul General Eleni Georgopoulou joined diplomatic and civic leaders at the City of Canning’s inaugural Consul Generals’ Reception.

You May Also Like

Bernard Tomic challenges Nick Kyrgios to $1 million winner-takes-all match

Bernard Tomic has called on Nick Kyrgios to put his money where his mouth is after the feud between the duo heated up again this week.

Themos Mexis to musically direct the new National Metropolitan Choir of Australia

Popular Greek composer and conductor, Themos Mexis, has been appointed Musical Director of the new National Metropolitan Choir of Australia.

Arthur Sinodinos AO welcomes Australia-US critical minerals deal

Former Australian ambassador to the US Arthur Sinodinos has welcomed the newly signed Australia–US critical minerals investment deal.